Indigestion or dyspepsia is a term that describes a pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. It is not considered a disease in itself and is a combination of pain or other symptoms of discomfort, usually after fast or excessive eating. While the symptoms of this condition, which almost everyone can experience, are usually mild, in some cases they can negatively affect quality of life.
When dyspepsia becomes a long-term and recurring problem, it is often seen as a sign of a different underlying condition or disorder. It is recommended that people with frequent indigestion problems seek support from a specialist.
What Causes Indigestion (Dyspepsia)?
Indigestion can have many different causes. Among the common causes are the lifestyle and eating habits of the person. A fast and over-consumed food can cause indigestion. In addition to these, common causes of indigestion are as follows:
- Eating fast or eating too much
- Consumption of excessive fatty foods
- Excessive consumption of alcohol, carbonated drinks, caffeine or sugary products
- Use of cigarettes and similar tobacco products
- Emotional and psychological problems such as stress, anxiety, anxiety and depression
- Use of medicines that can irritate the stomach
- Digestive system disorders
- Food intolerance
- Obesity
Diseases and conditions that may be related to chronic dyspepsia include
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Reflux disease
- Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach)
- Gallbladder inflammation
- Celiac disease
- Stomach cancer
- Gallstones
- Eating disorders
- Stomach infections
- Restless bowel syndrome
What are the Symptoms of Indigestion (Dyspepsia)?
Indigestion can have several different symptoms. However, there is always some degree of abdominal pain or discomfort. Symptoms of indigestion usually occur after a meal, during the digestive process of the stomach. Experts refer to this as the postprandial period.
The most common symptom is a feeling of early satiety during a meal. Even if the person has not finished most of their meal, they feel full and may not be able to finish the meal. If the uncomfortable feeling of fullness, pain and burning sensation after a meal lasts longer than usual, it may be a symptom of a different condition.
In addition to these, different symptoms that can be observed in people with indigestion problems are as follows:
- Bloating (feeling of fullness)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Belching and gas
- Regurgitation (regurgitation of swallowed food)
- Abdominal pain
- Burning in the stomach and upper part
Some complaints can increase in severity, especially during periods of stress. Some people may also experience heartburn with this condition. However, heartburn is a different symptom that may indicate another problem.
How is indigestion (dyspepsia) diagnosed?
For the diagnosis of indigestion , the specialist first performs a physical examination and asks a number of questions to get detailed information about the patient's medical history. The patient should share all the symptoms they observe and experience with the doctor in this process. If the complaints experienced are mild and there is no significant problem with sudden development, it may be sufficient for diagnosis.
However, in cases with sudden onset, recurring and severe course, some diagnostic techniques can be applied as there may be a different underlying cause. The doctor may order blood tests or x-rays to rule out other diseases that may cause the same symptoms as this condition. He or she may also recommend an upper endoscopy to look closely inside the stomach. Depending on the results of the tests, treatment is planned.
Indigestion (Dyspepsia) Treatment
Since indigestion is a symptom rather than a disease, treatment usually depends on the underlying condition causing the indigestion. In the majority of cases, lifestyle changes can help to reduce the symptoms. The measures to be taken for the treatment of indigestion are as follows:
- Avoiding foods that trigger indigestion
- Eliminate alcohol consumption
- Limiting caffeine and carbonated drinks
- Changing medications that cause indigestion on doctor's recommendation
- Establishing a sleep pattern and getting enough sleep
- Managing stress and avoiding situations that can cause stress
- Exercise and weight loss
- Consume food in moderation and in moderation
- Avoiding tight clothes that put pressure on the stomach
- Chewing for a long time in the mouth during food consumption
Complications of Indigestion
Although indigestion does not usually lead to serious complications, it can negatively affect quality of life by making people feel uncomfortable and eat less. If symptoms occur, a person may fall behind in their studies or miss work. In addition, when this condition is caused by a health problem or disease, different complications may occur depending on the underlying cause.